NATIONAL Trust’s Croome is pleased to announce the opening of brand new facilities for disabled people needing assistance.
The new changing place is a larger facility providing accessible and inclusive amenities to visitors with disabilities, ensuring everyone can fully enjoy their visit.
A grand opening was held for the facility on Friday (July 19) as part of Changing Places Awareness Day.
District and Parish Council members, Malvern Hills staff and the artist who created the internal design for it, joined together to view the facility and find out more about it.
The Changing Place facility at Croome has been thoughtfully designed to cater to the specific needs of individuals with additional needs. It offers a spacious and well-equipped area that includes an adjustable changing bench, a hoist system, and ample room for mobility aids and support equipment.
Visitors will now have access to a safe, clean, and private space that allows for dignified and comfortable changing.
The Changing Place includes a specially commissioned artwork depicting the landscape at Croome created by artist Will Hanekom, who illustrated Croome’s sensory Potter and Ponder map in 2016.
Jenine McGaughran, creative producer for South Worcestershire said: ‘It was really important that we created a space that was enjoyable to be in and reflected our commitment to creativity and community.
“We were thrilled to work with Will to make a new illustration depicting Croome’s landscape in his distinctively vivid and vibrant style, bringing a sense of intrigue and fun to this functional space.”
The changing place has been installed thanks to grant funding of £66,600 provided by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government in association with Muscular Dystrophy UK – made possible by Malvern Hills District Council.
“Every visitor wants to have an equally positive experience and to feel safe, relaxed and to enjoy the time they spend at the places we care for.”
We are at our very best when all our visitors, staff and volunteers feel welcome,” said Michelle Fullard, South Worcestershire General Manager.
The new Changing Place facility is located within the car park, ensuring easy access for all.
It will be open for visitors with the use of a radar key and additional radar keys can be found in visitor reception, the RAF Café and the Shop.
“We are so pleased to be able to support Croome by providing funding from the UK Government to install a Changing Places facility.” said Councillor Tom Wells, Portfolio Holder for Communities, Health and Wellbeing at Malvern Hills District Council.
